The Tri-Hamlet 250 Committee has started preparations for the United States’ 250th anniversary, organizing a kickoff event called “Fired Up for Freedom/Countdown to 250” on July 19 at the Mastic Beach Property Owners Association. The event was held to promote awareness of local history and encourage community participation ahead of America’s semiquincentennial in 2026.
During the event, students from the William Floyd School District were recognized for their entries in an art contest connected to the upcoming celebrations. Four students—James Start, Sophia Paulicelli, Tracy Rodney, and Jaylee Reyes—attended the ceremony and received acknowledgment for their contributions. Additional students who participated but were not present include Khrys Zapata, Isabella Humberstone, Selena Henderson, Yuriladys Jimenez, and Jacob Romero.
Local officials attended the kickoff event alongside committee members. These included NYS Senator Dean Murray; Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine; Kevin Collins, president of Mastic Beach Property Owners Association; Suffolk County Legislator Jim Mazzarella; Town of Brookhaven Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig; Town Supervisor Dan Panico; and Alice Painter, chief of staff for Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano.
Bill Doyle, chairperson of the Tri-Hamlet 250 Committee, led the proceedings as plans were announced for future events throughout the year. Scheduled activities include participation in local parades such as the Chamber of Commerce of the Mastics and Shirley Christmas Parade and Arthur H. Clune American Legion Post 1533 Memorial Day Parade. There will also be educational programs about William Floyd—a signer of the Declaration of Independence—and other historical figures associated with American independence.
Other planned events feature a community celebration on December 17 marking William Floyd’s birthday and a musical tribute to both Floyd and America’s history in spring. The commemorations will culminate with festivities on July 4, 2026.
The Tri-Hamlet area contains several sites significant to American history such as the William Floyd Estate (Old Mastic House), Manor of St. George (site of Revolutionary War action), and portions of the Benjamin Tallmadge Historic Trail.
The committee collaborates with various organizations including civic groups like Pattersquash Creek Civic Association and Marine Corps League East End as well as local chapters of Daughters of the American Revolution. Partnerships extend to public institutions such as Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library and agencies like Fire Island National Seashore.
Sponsors supporting these efforts include Beechwood Homes along with elected officials and community associations mentioned above.
“The Tri-Hamlet 250 Committee looks forward to celebrating the 250th anniversary of America and the signing of the Declaration of Independence with the community!” stated organizers.
